Name: Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 10 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the caramel frosting:; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the magic of homemade sweetness with a nostalgic twist, this Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake is just the ticket. With its historic roots and luscious blend of burnt sugar and creamy caramel frosting, this cake transforms any gathering into an occasion worth celebrating. It’s perfect for birthdays, potlucks, holidays, or whenever you crave a cozy, impressive treat. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake

The cake’s buttery, caramelized flavor offers a unique twist on classic layer cakes.
Moist, tender crumb pairs beautifully with rich, silky caramel frosting.
Perfect for make-ahead prep—both cake and frosting keep well.
Guaranteed to impress at special occasions or family gatherings.
Step-by-step instructions make this stunning cake surprisingly doable at home.

Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake Ingredients

For the Burnt Sugar Syrup:

1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup boiling water

For the Cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup milk, at room temperature
½ cup burnt sugar syrup (from above)

For Caramel Frosting:

½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup burnt sugar syrup (from above)
¼ cup heavy cream
¼ teaspoon salt
2 ½ – 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake

1. Prepare the Burnt Sugar Syrup

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup granulated sugar, swirling occasionally, until it turns a deep amber color and starts to smoke slightly (about 6-8 minutes).
Carefully and slowly add ¾ cup boiling water (it will sputter—stand back!), whisking constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.

2. Make the Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
Combine milk with ½ cup cooled burnt sugar syrup in a measuring cup.
With mixer on low, alternately add flour mixture and milk mixture to butter mixture, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
Divide batter between pans and smooth tops.
Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

3. Make the Caramel Frosting

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar; cook, stirring, until sugar is dissolved (about 2 minutes).
Add burnt sugar syrup and cream, bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Let cool slightly, then whisk in salt and vanilla. Gradually beat in sifted powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable.

4. Assemble the Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of caramel frosting over the top.
Add second cake layer. Frost the top and sides with remaining caramel frosting.
Optional: Drizzle with extra burnt sugar syrup or decorate with caramel shards.

Notes for Success with Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake

Carefully watch the sugar while caramelizing—it can go from perfect amber to burnt in seconds. Need guidance? Check out this comprehensive caramel guide.
For extra-moist cake layers, lightly brush cakes with simple syrup before frosting.
Let the frosting cool if it’s too runny; it thickens as it stands. Learn more about frosting techniques at King Arthur Baking.

Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake Variations

Nutty Caramel Cake: Add 1 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts between layers.
Salted Caramel Cake: Sprinkle sea salt flakes over the frosting for a sweet-and-salty kick.
Spiced Caramel Cake: Add 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or a pinch of cardamom to the cake batter.

Equipment Required for Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake

Two 8-inch round cake pans
Electric mixer or stand mixer
Heavy-bottomed saucepan
Mixing bowls (large and medium)
Wire cooling rack
Whisk
Offset spatula for frosting

Storage for Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake

Store Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap unfrosted cake layers well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then frost before serving.

Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake Pairings & Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra richness.
Pair with strong brewed coffee or a bold black tea.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt or toasted nuts for added crunch.

Pro Tips for the Best Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake

Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture and proper rise. Learn why this matters from Food Network.
Test doneness by gently pressing the cake center—it should spring back lightly.
Chill the cake before slicing for cleaner, neater pieces.

Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake FAQ

1. Can I make the cake in advance?: Yes! Both the cake and frosting can be made a day ahead. Wait to assemble until just before serving for optimal freshness.
2. Can I use store-bought caramel instead of homemade burnt sugar syrup?: For authentic deep flavor, homemade burnt sugar is best, but high-quality bottled caramel can be a time-saving substitute in a pinch.
3. Is the burnt sugar flavor very bitter?: No, when cooked correctly, it’s robust, toasty, and pleasantly bittersweet—never acrid or overly burnt.

If you’re ready to try a classic Southern treat with irresistible caramel notes, you’ll love this Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake recipe. Happy baking!

Burnt Sugar Caramel Cake